The Kunene second division football league is nearing its conclusion – and with four games remaining, Robber Chanties are in pole position to claim the title, with Okarindi Komutati trailing behind, waiting for their opponents’ missteps to capitalise on.
The Khorixas youngsters have positioned themselves in an advantageous position as seen by their pedigree since the start of the season, tearing their opponents apart while enjoying outstanding football.
Chanties head into tomorrow’s match with a six-point lead over Okarindi Komutati.
Thus, a win away to rival Khaibasen would move them closer to clinching the title, and increasing their promotion prospects to the Northwest Stream First Division playoffs.
It will not be an easy challenge for Chanties, considering Khaibasen has a point to prove, having been the title contender for much of the season until the team was involved in serious misconduct with match officials on two occasions.
That game, scheduled for the Etoshapoort Stadium in Outjo, is expected to decide the league title.
Elsewhere in Kamanjab, Etosha United will face Okarindi Komutati in another title-deciding game, which Okarindi Komutati must win if they are to keep Chanties at bay and prevent them from running away with the league.
Relegation fears deepen at the bottom of the log standings, with two clubs from either Pubs, Gariseb Pirates or Sixty Eleven certain to be relegated at the end of the season.
Pubs will have home advantage when they host Sixty Eleven in a relegation struggle at Outjo, whereas Gariseb Pirates will face a daunting task when they visit Young Eagles at Okaukuejo, a team they failed to defeat in the first round. Khorixas Football Academy will host Ugab FC at the Herbert Conradie Stadium, while Green Dangers welcomes Kunene NamPol, who have already given up on chasing the title they nearly won last season.
The league enters Round 20 on Sunday, with Khorixas Football Academy facing Sixty Eleven, and Khaibasen hosting Gariseb Pirates.
Pubs will face Ugab in Outjo, while Etosha United confront the men in uniform, Kunene NamPol.
The real test for the title challenge will come on Sunday afternoon in Kamanjab and Okaukuejo when Green Dangers take on Okarindi Komutati, with Young Eagles set for a home advantage showpiece in a must-win game against title contender Robber Chanties.
-Nampa